Formula 1's calendar calamity

Negotiations for Russia and France to host grands prix in 2014 are ongoing, although recent political upheaval in both countries may put paid to the deals. Dieter Rencken explains the situation

Two major political events, held a day apart earlier this week, have the potential to radically influence future Formula 1 calendars. These events are, of course, the French election – which resulted in Francois Hollande coming to power – and the inauguration of Russia's returning president Vladimir Putin.

Both countries have aspirations to be part of F1 within the next two years, with each relying heavily upon political support to do so. Yet, where just a month or so ago both countries' grands prix seemed shoo-ins, they this week joined F1's endangered events – and thus could affect F1's future profitability, and therefore the planned Singapore Stock Exchange Initial Purchase Offer of F1 stock.